ICYMI, Delhiites Had Cleanest Air in September in 9 Years!

Delhi recorded its lowest AQI of 98 this year — in 9 years, for the first time it has been termed “satisfactory”.

Polluted air getting less

(Photo: iStock altered by FIT)

This September has been the cleanest air for Delhiites in the last nine years!

According to a TOI report, DPCC data from 2011 to 2019 reveals that both the average PM2.5 and PM10 levels were within safe limits this September - which has happened for the first time in nine years.

Average AQI

Here's what the average AQI has been in the past few years:

• September 2015: 194

• September 2016: 162

• September 2017: 139

• September 2018: 112

• September 2019: 98

Yes, Delhi recorded its lowest AQI of 98 this year — which for the first time since this data has been collected, has been termed “satisfactory”.

PM Levels Down

Sample this:

This year, the average PM10 level was 99 microgram per cubic metre (as against a safe standard of 100). In 2015, the average PM10 level was 239 microgram per cubic metre. Showing a decline of 58%.

Average PM 2.5 level in 2015 was 72 microgram; this year, the level was recorded at just 40 microgram per cubic metre, well below the safe limit of 60. Showing a decline of 44%.

So if you thought the city was suddenly feeling less like a gas chamber, you are not alone.